Publications
Publications
- February 2021
- HBS Case Collection
Soofa: Displaying the Right Path?
By: Jeffrey J. Bussgang and Amy Klopfenstein
Abstract
This teaching plan serves as a supplement to the case “Soofa: Displaying the Right Path?” HBS 820-098. The case explores the tension between two different financing and expansion plans for a startup, and explores issues related to business model pivots and industry transitions. An added layer of tension exists between the CEO, a first-time female founder, and an experienced male media executive, providing a dilemma of whether the CEO should follow her own instincts or defer to the expertise of others and pressures from her board. The teaching plan includes a sample discussion plan, suggested assignment questions, suggestions for teaching the case in an online classroom, and a sample board plan. It also provides information about Richter’s decision and the status of Soofa after the conclusion of the case.
Keywords
Business Ventures; Business Model; Business Plan; Business Startups; Entrepreneurship; Decision Making; Decisions; Judgments; Ethics; Geography; Geopolitical Units; Finance; Investment; Markets; Market Entry and Exit; Demand and Consumers; Media; Society; Urban Development; Sustainable Cities; Information Technology; Information Infrastructure; Digital Platforms; Strategy; Business Strategy; Expansion; Relationships; Capital; Venture Capital; Advertising Industry; Technology Industry; Media and Broadcasting Industry; North and Central America; United States; Massachusetts; Cambridge
Citation
Bussgang, Jeffrey J., and Amy Klopfenstein. "Soofa: Displaying the Right Path?" Harvard Business School Teaching Plan 821-055, February 2021.